The General Overseer of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, Yohanna Buru, led a delegation of Christian scholars and pastors to the Eid praying ground at Murtala Mohammed Square in Kaduna on Wednesday, in a show of interfaith solidarity during the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
“We are here to wish you Barka da Sallah and to strengthen good relationships,” Buru said shortly after the prayers, calling on Nigerians to embrace peace, love, and unity for national progress.
“Nigeria can achieve its full potential when we work together and embrace peace,” he said while congratulating Muslims on the successful celebration and praying for continued peace and prosperity.
Buru said the visit by the team of pastors was aimed at strengthening relationships and promoting unity in Northern Nigeria. He also extended congratulations to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, and other prominent Islamic leaders.
“This marks the fifth consecutive year Buru and his team have participated in Eid celebrations at the central mosque, a gesture he described as part of a long-standing commitment to peace and harmony.
Addressing thousands of Muslim faithful, Buru noted that Sallah celebrations provide an opportunity for Christians and Muslims to interact, build friendships, and promote national unity.
“We must remember that we are one family under God, worshipping the same Creator. Both the Qur’an and the Bible are holy books sent by one God,” he said, urging Nigerians to set aside differences and work together for a united and prosperous nation.
Pastor Rawland Sanda from Southern Kaduna said the delegation attended to promote peace, religious tolerance, and mutual understanding.
“This is not the first time we are visiting the mosque with a team of pastors to strengthen relationships with Muslim clerics and promote peace and religious harmony,” he said.
Other Christian leaders, including John, Moses, and Madam Grace, also stressed the need for cooperation among different faith groups.
The Chief Imam of the Central Mosque, Sheikh Habib Umar Mahmood, thanked Buru and his team for their consistent support.
“You are truly unique, and may God bless you abundantly,” he said, calling on Nigerians to continue praying for peace and unity.
Mallam Sunusi Surajo, a member of the Eid praying ground committee, commended Kaduna State for promoting religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence and prayed for similar unity across Nigeria’s 36 states.
He also called on the Federal Government to consider Buru for a national award for his efforts in promoting interreligious harmony.
Prominent attendees included former Kaduna State Governor, Ramalan Yero, politicians, Islamic scholars, traditional leaders, women, and children.
